Staff Scientist

Department

BSD BMB - Concepcion Lab

About The Department

The Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology studies how biomolecules function and interact to drive the complex, diverse, and adaptive behaviors of living systems. Our focus is on biological mechanisms described at the atomic level. We are highly collaboratory and often employ multiple approaches to address otherwise intractable questions. We have particular strengths in membrane proteins and RNA biochemistry and are pioneers in all areas of biophysics, structural biology, biochemistry, and protein engineering and design. Please explore our programs further at https://biochem.uchicago.edu. This at-will position is wholly or partially funded by contractual grant funding which is renewed under provisions set by the grantor of the contract. Employment will be contingent upon the continued receipt of these grant funds and satisfactory job performance.

Job Summary

The Staff Scientist will join a collaborative, multidisciplinary lab at the University of Chicago studying how ion channels and transporters regulate immune cell signaling and function. This role combines electrophysiology (patch clamp) with biochemical and imaging approaches to uncover mechanisms of immune regulation. The scientist will drive protocol development, mentor trainees, collaborate across diverse research teams, and contribute to publications and reports for funding agencies.

Ideal candidates are adaptable, technically strong, and excited to work in a dynamic, team-oriented research environment.

Responsibilities

• Will primarily investigate the biophysical properties of ion channels relevant to immune system cells using the patch clamp electrophysiology technique. The current focus is to determine how loss-of-function and gain-of-function mutations, as well as post-translational modifications of ion channels affect their biophysical properties.
• Support the training environment of the lab.
• Prepare research results for journal publication and periodic reports for granting agencies.
• Serves as a resource for collecting data and performing analysis. Contributes to facilitating and promoting a research project by providing scientific or intellectual information.
• Reviews laboratory protocols and training on new techniques. Manage complex data sets for research.
• Leads the contributions to scientific writing and publications, including protocols and grants.
• Trains new laboratory personnel.
• Performs other related work as needed.
  
  

Education

Minimum Qualifications

Work Experience

Minimum requirements include a PhD in related field.

Minimum requirements include knowledge and skills developed through 2-5 years of work experience in a related job discipline.

Certifications

Preferred Qualifications

Experience

• Strong background in electrophysiology, particularly patch clamp techniques.
• Experience designing and troubleshooting innovative experimental protocols.
• Proven scientific writing skills, including preparation of reports for grants, industry partners, or patent-related documentation.
• Experience in one or more of the following: molecular biology, cell/tissue culture, microscopy, transcriptomics, or flow cytometry.
• Track record of cross-disciplinary collaboration.
• Experience contributing to federally funded research programs.
  
  

Preferred Competencies

• Demonstrated ability to adapt to new research areas and learn new experimental methods.
• Effective communication and hands-on training/mentorship experience.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.
  
  

Working Conditions

• Wet Lab Environment.
• Weekend/Evening Hours: As needed.
• Travel Required: As Needed.
  
  

Application Documents

• Resume (required)
  
  

When applying, the document(s) MUST be uploaded via the My Experience page, in the section titled Application Documents of the application.

Job Family

Research

Role Impact

Individual Contributor

Scheduled Weekly Hours

40

Drug Test Required

No

Health Screen Required

No

Motor Vehicle Record Inquiry Required

No

Pay Rate Type

Salary

FLSA Status

Exempt

Pay Range

$70,000.00 - $90,000.00

The included pay rate or range represents the University’s good faith estimate of the possible compensation offer for this role at the time of posting.

Benefits Eligible

Yes

The University of Chicago offers a wide range of benefits programs and resources for eligible employees, including health, retirement, and paid time off. Information about the benefit offerings can be found in the Benefits Guidebook.

Posting Statement

The University of Chicago is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender, gender identity, or expression, national or ethnic origin, shared ancestry, age, status as an individual with a disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, or other protected classes under the law. For additional information please see the University's Notice of Nondiscrimination.

Job seekers in need of a reasonable accommodation to complete the application process should call 773-702-5800 or submit a request via Applicant Inquiry Form.

All offers of employment are contingent upon a background check that includes a review of conviction history. A conviction does not automatically preclude University employment. Rather, the University considers conviction information on a case-by-case basis and assesses the nature of the offense, the circumstances surrounding it, the proximity in time of the conviction, and its relevance to the position.

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